Licorice Can Reduce Indigestion and May Help Prevent Stomach Ulcers

Licorice is a common indigestion remedy that may also help to avoid unpleasant stomach ulcers. Licorice root was traditionally eaten whole. It's now most commonly eaten as a supplement known as deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL). DGL is recommended over regular licorice root because it does not include glycyrrhizin, a naturally occurring chemical in licorice that, when ingested in excessive amounts, can cause fluid imbalances, and high blood pressure, and low potassium levels.

Animal and test-tube studies show that DGL relieves stomach pain and discomfort by decreasing stomach lining inflammation and boosting mucus production to protect tissues from stomach acid. This might be especially beneficial for people who have an upset stomach as a result of too much stomach acid or acid reflux. DGL supplements may also aid in the relief of stomach ulcers caused by an overgrowth of the bacterium H. pylori. DGL supplements have been found in several trials to decrease H. pylori overgrowth, lower symptoms and even boost stomach ulcer healing.